17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania Overall Health Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Overall Health Score in 17820, Catawissa, Pennsylvania is 56 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

72.55 percent of residents in 17820 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 11.97 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Geisinger-Bloomsburg Hospital with a distance of 8.71 miles from the area.

## Overall Health Score: Commuting to Healthcare in Catawissa, PA (ZIP Code 17820)

Considering a move to Catawissa, Pennsylvania, and prioritizing your health? Understanding the accessibility of healthcare within and around ZIP Code 17820 is crucial. This “Overall Health Score” write-up delves into the realities of commuting to medical facilities, evaluating drive times, public transportation options, and ride-sharing availability, providing a comprehensive picture of healthcare access in this rural community.

Catawissa, nestled in the heart of Columbia County, offers a tranquil lifestyle. However, its rural setting presents unique challenges when it comes to healthcare access. The score reflects the interplay of distance, available transportation, and the presence of specific medical services, offering a realistic perspective for potential residents.

The primary method of transportation in Catawissa is undoubtedly personal vehicles. Driving is the most common way to reach healthcare providers. Major routes like **Interstate 80 (I-80)**, though not directly passing through Catawissa, are vital for accessing larger medical centers. **Route 42** and **Route 44** provide essential north-south and east-west arteries, connecting Catawissa to surrounding towns and healthcare facilities.

For routine appointments, residents often utilize local practices. The drive to a primary care physician in nearby Bloomsburg, approximately 10-15 minutes via Route 42, is generally manageable. Specialty care, however, often necessitates longer commutes. Reaching Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, a regional hub for advanced medical services, requires a 30-45 minute drive, primarily via I-80 and Route 54.

Emergency situations demand swift access to medical care. The drive to the nearest emergency room, typically at Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, located in Bloomsburg, is a critical factor. This drive, usually around 15-20 minutes via Route 42, is generally considered reasonable. However, during inclement weather or peak traffic hours, travel times can increase significantly.

Public transportation options in Catawissa are limited. The Columbia County Transportation Authority (CCTA) provides bus services, but routes and schedules are infrequent, especially for those needing to access healthcare. While the CCTA does offer ADA-accessible vehicles, the limited routes and potential for long wait times make it a less-than-ideal option for regular medical appointments.

The CCTA's service area and routes are not optimized for healthcare access. The buses are primarily designed to connect the larger towns of the county, such as Bloomsburg and Berwick, and do not offer frequent service to healthcare facilities from Catawissa.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the region, but their presence is not as consistent or readily available as in more urban areas. Availability can be unpredictable, especially during off-peak hours or in adverse weather conditions. Relying solely on ride-sharing for medical appointments is therefore risky.

Medical transportation services, specifically designed to transport patients to and from medical appointments, are available in the area. These services, like Med-Trans or local ambulance services, can be a valuable option, especially for individuals with mobility limitations or those who cannot drive. However, these services typically require advance booking and may have associated costs.

The overall healthcare access score for Catawissa, PA (17820) is moderate. While basic primary care is readily accessible, accessing specialized care and emergency services requires travel. The reliance on personal vehicles and the limited public transportation options present challenges for those without access to a car.

For those considering moving to Catawissa, careful consideration of healthcare access is essential. Prospective residents should factor in the drive times to various medical facilities, assess their transportation needs, and investigate the availability of ride-sharing or medical transport services.

The availability of healthcare is a key consideration when moving to a new area. Prospective residents should evaluate their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the necessary medical services in a timely and reliable manner.

The absence of readily available public transportation and the limited ride-sharing options highlight the importance of personal vehicle ownership. Individuals without access to a car may face significant challenges in accessing healthcare.

While Catawissa offers a peaceful environment, the challenges associated with healthcare access should be carefully considered. Planning ahead, researching transportation options, and understanding the drive times to various medical facilities are crucial steps in ensuring adequate healthcare access.

The healthcare landscape in Catawissa is not without its challenges. The rural setting and limited public transportation options can create barriers to accessing medical care. However, with careful planning and consideration, residents can navigate these challenges and ensure their healthcare needs are met.

The “Overall Health Score” reflects the interplay of factors impacting healthcare access. The drive times, transportation options, and availability of medical services all contribute to the overall score, providing a realistic assessment of healthcare accessibility in Catawissa.

The healthcare access score for Catawissa is a dynamic assessment, influenced by various factors. The availability of healthcare providers, the efficiency of transportation systems, and the evolving needs of the community all contribute to the overall score.

The decision to move to Catawissa involves weighing the benefits of rural living against the challenges of healthcare access. Prospective residents should carefully evaluate their healthcare needs and ensure they can access the necessary medical services in a timely and reliable manner.

The overall health score emphasizes the importance of planning for healthcare access. Researching local healthcare providers, assessing transportation options, and understanding drive times are crucial steps in ensuring a healthy and fulfilling life in Catawissa.

Ultimately, the “Overall Health Score” provides a nuanced perspective on healthcare access in Catawissa. It underscores the importance of personal vehicle ownership, the limitations of public transportation, and the need for proactive planning to ensure access to quality medical care.